New Delhi: Air India on Friday terminated the services of the pilot-in-command of a Phuket-Delhi flight after he tested positive for a psychoactive substance.

The airline’s action came hours after the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), in its preliminary report on the August 4 flight incident, flagged the pilot’s drug use as a serious concern and asked aviation regulator DGCA to take appropriate action.

“The Pilot-in-Command of the Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for a psychoactive substance. In line with Air India’s zero-tolerance approach to violation of safety, fitness or regulatory requirements, the pilot’s employment has been terminated with immediate effect,” the airline said in a statement.

What happened on the Phuket-Delhi flight?

On August 4, the Air India A320 operating the Phuket-Delhi route suddenly lost nearly 300 feet of altitude, leaving several passengers injured.

According to the AAIB’s preliminary findings, the aircraft was cruising at 36,000 feet when it experienced the near-simultaneous loss of all three hydraulic systems.

The failure triggered an autopilot disconnect, a brief stall warning and an altitude upset.

The aircraft was carrying 145 people at the time, and 24 passengers were injured during the incident.
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AAIB flags pilot drug use

The preliminary report also raised concerns over the pilot’s positive drug test, describing the issue as serious and calling on the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to take appropriate action.

Air India said the termination was in line with its zero-tolerance policy on violations involving safety, fitness and regulatory requirements.

The airline’s decision comes as the investigation into the Phuket-Delhi flight incident continues.